Shamar Duncan was sentenced to 105 years in prison for the 2022 fatal shooting of a Dutch soldier in downtown Indianapolis. Prosecutor Ryan Mears called the incident “100% preventable” and highlighted the role of alcohol and guns in leading to poor choices. Duncan was found guilty of murder, attempted murder, and aggravated battery in connection with the shooting death of 26-year-old Simmie Poetsema. The confrontation began when Duncan and two others antagonized the Dutch soldiers as they were walking back to their hotel from a club. The situation escalated into a fight, and eventually Duncan’s group drove back to the hotel and opened fire, killing Poetsema and injuring two others. Duncan apologized in court, claiming he acted out of fear. Surveillance footage and witness accounts led to his identification as the shooter. The soldiers were visiting Indianapolis on a day off from training at the Muscatatuck Urban Training Center. Mears emphasized the tragic outcome of the altercation and the unnecessary loss of life that resulted from poor decision-making.
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